Roll up, roll up for the greatest show on Earth! This mammoth show incorporates all the flamboyant showmanship and spectacle of PT Barnum's circus.

It will be packed with circus acts, stage illusions, amazing acrobatics and death-defying feats.

With a cast including skilled circus performers and actors with West End pedigree, this show also sees a welcome return to the stage for Chris Jordan, who last appeared in Eastbourne in the box office-breaking Me and My Girl.

Chris plays the title role.

This award-winning musical tells the story of Phineas Taylor Barnum, from his humble beginnings as a sideshow operator.

At the end of his life, he achieves fame by setting up the Barnum and Bailey Circus, otherwise known as "The Greatest Show on Earth!"

Barnum's lust for life, colour and excitement sees him encounter all kinds of adventures as he battles with tricksters, setbacks and a wife who only ever dreams of enjoying a respectable "humbug-free" life together.

First brought to the West End by Michael Crawford, Barnum features show-stopping songs including There is a Sucker Born Every Minute, Come Follow the Band, and the spectacular Join the Circus, when audiences can marvel at spectacular stunts including high wire walking, trapeze acts, tumbling and juggling.

The cast also features Kirsty Hoiles (Phantom of the Opera) as Charity Barnum, Wendy Mae Brown (Rent and Mamma Mia) as Joice Heth, and Sandie Jensen as Jenny Lind.

There is a welcome return visit to Eastbourne for three other members of the ensemble including Mark Connell (Singing in the Rain) as General Tom Thumb, John Alastair (Jack and the Beanstalk) as the all-important ring master and musical director Rob Cussons, who is combining working on Barnum with the latest new musical in the West End, Calamity Jane.

The cast list is extensive and includes experienced professionals with bags of talent.

Some have worked for Disney, the Millennium Dome, and the acclaimed show Fosse.

Fiona Watkins is circus co-ordinator for the show, which represents a break from working on CBBC's Tweenies programme.

With tickets selling fast, book now to ensure a ring-side seat.

Tickets cost from £7 to £18 with discounts available.

Call the box office on 01323 412000.

Preview by Philippa Jacks, features@theargus.co.uk